Are you not ready to explore the markets for shopping in Bangkok because of the lack of information? If yes, then stop scrolling your phone to gather information about markets in Bangkok.
This blog will answer all your queries and give you insights about the best markets for shopping in Bangkok. So, let’s get started.
What comes to mind when you hear the word ‘shopping’ in Bangkok? Malls or markets? I guess most of us think of markets for shopping in Bangkok, which is quite unique and budget-friendly for tourists.
Malls can be found everywhere, but they steal our deals, whereas street markets steal our hearts with so many unique finds at affordable prices.
Spoiler Alert!
Shall I increase your excitement by listing the different types of shopping products and takeaway souvenirs in Bangkok? Here you go-
Things to Shop from Shopping Markets in Bangkok
Clothes | Footwear | Accessories | Bags | Small Takeaways | Thai Souvenirs |
T-shirts & Shirts | Sneakers | Jewelry | Luggage | keychains | Buddha Statues |
Jeans | Boots | Hats | Handbags | Magnets | Ceramic Vases |
Jackets | Loafers | Sunglasses | Clutches | Vintage Watches | Antique Jewelry |
Dresses | Sandals | Wallets | Backpacks | Vintage
Clocks |
Silk Products |
Sweaters & Overcoat | Flip-flops | Hair Accessories | Totes | Antique Coins &
Currency |
Decorative masks |
Activewear | Slippers | Cosmetics | School bags | Thai Amulets | Wall hangings |
Loungewear | Sports shoes | Watches | Weekender bags | Thai wood carvings | Thai postcards |
Swimwear | Crocs | Umbrella | Crossbody bags | Thai pottery | Thai Paintings |
Outerwear | Formal Shoes | Belts | Small Backpacks | Passport cover | Thai photographs |
Now, for shopping, the markets in Bangkok have so many diverse types. It is not just a normal market. Bangkok has all kinds of shopping markets, like night markets, floating markets, weekend markets, street markets, arts and crafts markets, and flower markets. So, why wait more? Let’s explore the shopping markets in Bangkok.
Let’s start with the most loved Night Markets in Bangkok .
Night Markets in Bangkok for Shopping
Bangkok night markets are the most happening markets for shopping in the evening and night time when you can see Bangkok’s lively aspects. It is the time when the city dolls up as a bride, surrounded by city lights, a calming breeze and laughter everywhere.
Night markets in Bangkok capture the true essence of this high-spirited city. The sound, sight and amazing energy of people add a layer to your shopping experience. So, let’s learn more about the best night markets for shopping in Bangkok. The first name that pops up when we hear about night markets in Bangkok is Pratunam Night Market.
Pratunam Night Market
This is one of the best night markets in Bangkok, where you find almost everything essential for your luxury styling, basic needs, taste buds satisfying food.
Quick Facts
- Location: Pratunam District, Bangkok, Thailand
- Market Timing: 9 AM to 11:30 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening, around 6 PM.
- Best Payment Option: Cash
X Factor of Pratunam Night Market in Bangkok
This night market serves as a source of merchandise for local shops and international traders, selling goods at wholesale prices. |
Pratunam Night Market is the best destination for one-stop shopping in Bangkok. It offers access to trendy and unique products and the opportunity to negotiate and get discounts.
Patpong Night Market
Patpong has been an entertainment hub since its creation. You can have all sorts of fun (from shopping to eating delicious food) in this market, but you should be aware that this night market offers more than just shopping; adult entertainment and cannabis are also available there.
Tourists exploring patpong night market
But let’s find out why and how this market started entertaining its tourists, and for this, we have to go back and turn the pages of history.
Did you know this fact about Patpong Night Market?
This market played an important role in developing Bangkok’s nightlife. It is historically associated with the city’s transformation during the Vietnam War era. Patpong became known internationally and became a popular destination for American soldiers on R&R (Rest and Recreation) during the Vietnam War in the 1960s and 1970s. |
As you know, this night market in Bangkok has become renowned internationally. So, let’s find out which Thai product earns this status in this market for shopping. The answer that comes forward is Thai souvenirs and unique, quirky finds.
The peculiar finds are-
- Binoculars
- Cameras
- Ninja-styled knives
- Weapons
- Illegal music compilations
- Pirated DVDs
Quick Facts
- Location: Patpong Night Market, Bangkok
- Market Timing: 6 PM to 1 AM
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening, around 6 PM.
- Payment Option: Cash
Hua Mum Night Market
It is not wrong to call night markets in Bangkok as ‘shopper’s paradise’ as you can get everything that you want. Same goes with Hua Mum Night Market in Bangkok. Many stalls in these markets sell snacks and food, so you can shop and eat both.
Street Food Truck in Hua Mum Night Market
Quick Facts
- Location: Hua Mum Night Market, Bangkok.
- Market Timing: 5 PM to 12 AM
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening, around 6 PM.
- Payment Option: Cash
X Factor of Hua Mum Night Market in Bangkok
In this night market, a restaurant named “Hunk Seafood” in Bangkok has muscular waiters who serve you food wearing drag clothes. They get dressed up as females. They wear skimpy nightwear in particular, and occasionally, they dance to songs that entertain the customers. Funny, isn’t it? |
This shopping market in Bangkok has amazing carnival games, delicious food, reasonable clothing and accessories, and gives you a local vibe.
Bingsu is a must-try dessert in this market. So, don’t forget to visit this unique night market for shopping in Bangkok for a well-spent night.
The One Ratchada
Do you want Christmas kind lights and outdoor chilling next to palm leaves in the off-season? Then, head straight to The One Ratchada night market for shopping in Bangkok.
Food Stalls in The One Ratchada
Quick Facts
- Location: The One Ratchada Night Market, Bangkok.
- Market Timing: 4 PM to 12 AM
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening, around 6 PM.
- Payment Option: Cash
This shopping market in Bangkok gives you a peaceful shopping option as it has an open-air outdoor mall ambiance, with stalls selling food and clothes and a market decorated with lights
calm environment.
The One Ratchada Market is divided into three major sections– first for good stalls selling all sorts of unique products, the second for food stalls, and then, bars. All together you get good street foods with a shopping experience in a peaceful environment.
Floating Markets in Bangkok for Shopping
Floating markets in South Asian countries have become a popular tourist destinations. These markets started when canals in Thailand served as the region’s primary means of transportation and commerce and later became an integral part of the daily lives of local communities.
The structures of floating markets in Bangkok are typically made from wood, bamboo, and thatched roofs, giving people shade and shelter from the sun. And that’s what makes them unique from all other night markets.
Taling Chan Floating Market
Do you know what makes people go inside the Taling Chan Floating Market? The wooden arch entrance surrounded by water and greenery leads you inside.
Women selling things from Boat in Taling Chan Floating Market
Quick Facts
- Location: Taling Chan Floating Market, Bangkok
- Market Timing: 7:30 AM to 6 PM (Sat-Sun)
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning, around 8 AM
- Payment Option: Cash
Wait, let me give you a detailed description of this floating market to help you imagine better-
Taling Chan Floating Market is a small and less crowded market for shopping in Bangkok. It is situated under a bridge where trains pass.
It has wooden pontoons and connecting platforms stretching across the water. Vendors set up their stalls on these platforms.
It has its own promenade filled with food vendors selling a variety of mouth-watering Thai dishes, drinks and snacks.
Fun Facts
Small boats operate between the stalls, allowing vendors to sell their products directly from their vessels to visitors. This market, too, has a boat kitchen where vendors cook and sell hot food. |
Imagining it makes your heart full, right? Now, you’ll have an idea of all the things to shop from Taling Chan Floating Market, Bangkok.
- Fresh produce Thai dishes and seafood.
- Local products, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
- Fruits, snacks, seasonal vegetables, and flowers.
X-Factor about Taling Chan Floating Market
Feeding catfish is a popular activity in this market. There’s an area where you can feed the catfish, and vendors sell fish food. The most enjoyable part is when you put food, fish gather together, and that’s the most amazing sight. |
Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market
This is a special floating market for shopping and spending quality time in Bangkok. Wait, before you know about Bang Nam Phueng floating market for shopping, let me tell you something about its location i.e., in Bang Krachao.
Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market in Bangkok
Significance of Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market, Bang Krachao, Bangkok
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Things to shop from Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market:
- Fresh Produce
- Local Food and Snacks
- Handicrafts and Souvenirs
- Plants and Flowers
- Art and Antiques
X Factor of Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market, Bangkok
As it is located in the mangrove forest in Bang Krachao, it offers numerous activities for its tourists to do, such as
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Quick Facts
- Location: Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market, Bangkok
- Market Timing: 7 AM to 4 PM (weekends)
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning, around 8 AM
- Payment Option: Cash
Popular Thailand Tour Packages – Most Travelled
Flower markets in Bangkok
How many colors do you know that exist in the world?
Don’t start thinking now and get entangled in your thoughts because there are more than 10 million shades of color in this world. To see and know many unique colors, you should visit the flower markets in Bangkok.
Flowers hold significant cultural importance in Thai traditions, from religious ceremonies to everyday rituals. These markets are usually open 24/7, but sales peak in the early morning hours when the flowers arrive.
Florists, Wedding Planners, Event Organizers, Hotel and Restaurant Owners, and Tourists all go to this market in Bangkok in the early hours to buy fresh flowers. Flower markets play a significant role in uplifting the economy and culture, serving commercial needs and enriching the sensory experiences of locals and tourists alike.
Here is a list of just a few flowers you get in flower markets in Bangkok.
- Orchids
- Jasmine
- Lilies
- Hibiscus
- Bougainvillea
- Heliconia
- Marigolds
- Roses
- Lotus
- Chrysanthemums
- Gerbera
- Carnations
- Daisies
- Sunflowers
Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market)
Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market is the largest and most famous flower market in the city’s heart, near the Chao Phraya River.
Colorful Fresh Flowers in Pak Khlong Talat Market
Quick Facts
- Location: Pak Khlong Talat Market, Bangkok
- Market Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM (all days)
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning, around 8 AM
- Payment Option: Cash
This market is both a wholesale and retail market. When you take a walk through the alleyways in this flower market, you will get a unique sensory experience that transcends this physical world. You enter an aromatic world in which you want to live forever.
Photographers usually visit this flower market in Bangkok to take pictures, as it displays colorful images of Thai floral craftsmanship. Also, the flower offerings for the temples go from this market.
Do you know which plants are believed to bring luck and prosperity to Thai culture?
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Did You Know?
Phuang Malai Phuang’ means a ‘thread’ or string‘, and ‘Malai‘ means ‘flower garland.’ In Thailand, flower garlands symbolize luck and respect. It is used to offer deities, commemorate special occasions such as Father’s Day or Mother’s Day and celebrate weddings. It is a kind of floral ornament worn by people of Thailand. |
Chatuchak Flower Market
Chatuchak Flower Market is a wholesale plant and flower market. It is smaller than the Chatuchak weekend market but has several hundred stalls.
Flowers in Chatuchak Flower Market
As soon as you enter this flower market, your eyes will experience an explosion of color, and your sense of smell will be overwhelmed by the vast array of aromas that dominate the market.
Quick Facts
- Location: Chatuchak Flower Market, Bangkok
- Market Timing: 9 AM to 6 PM (Tues, Wed, Thurs)
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning, around 9 AM
- Payment Option: Cash
Important Note to Remember:
When you are in a Flower market in Bangkok, don’t smell flowers or garlands before buying it. According to Thai culture, it is not right to smell flowers before offering them to God or presenting them to someone as a gift. (Isn’t it the same as Indian Culture? Yes, sure it is). |
Besides flowers, Chatuchak Flower Market in Bangkok is a great place to shop for green plants, bonsai trees, ferns, palms, and decorative show plants. These plants are suitable for indoor and outdoor decoration, landscaping, and gardening.
Weekend Markets in Bangkok for Shopping
As the name suggests, these markets are held only on weekends, offering everything from clothing, accessories, and handicrafts to antiques, electronics, and souvenirs. These shopping markets in Bangkok are huge and are divided into several sections, each specializing in different categories of products.
Do you know what makes these markets more alive? The hyper-active vendors call out the names of their goods and attract customers. Bangkok’s weekend markets are essential to the city’s cultural experience, providing a glimpse into its energetic street life and shopping culture.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Chatuchak Market is the largest market in Bangkok and will amaze you with its incredible variety of products. There is nothing that you name and don’t get; it’s like a one-stop shopping market in Bangkok.
Clothing Stores in Chatuchak Weekend Market
You can find almost everything: plants, antiques, electronics, cosmetics, pets, fresh and dried food and beverages, ceramics, furniture and housewares, clothing and books. Most vendors at Chatuchak Market are local businesses or talented artisans.
Quick Facts
- Location: Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok
- Market Timing: 7 AM – 6 PM (Wed-Sun)
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning, around 8 PM.
- Payment Option: Cash
If you are a first-timer, don’t just rush into this market. You will be lost, and finding a way out will be difficult, as it is a maze. But don’t get scared. Although it has thousands of stalls, it is divided into sections for easier navigation. Let me help you by giving you a blueprint of Chatuchak Market, Bangkok.
The market is spread over 35 acres and has over 15,000 stalls selling products from every part of Thailand.
Zone/ Section | Goods |
Sections 2–6, 10–26 | Clothing and accessories |
Sections 8–11 | Handicrafts |
Sections 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 25 | Ceramics |
Sections 1,3,4,7,8 | Furniture and home decor |
Sections 2, 3, 4, 23, 24, 26, 27 | Food and beverage |
Sections 3, 4 | Plants and gardening |
Section 7 | Art and galleries |
Sections 8, 9, 11, 13 | Pets and accessories |
Sections 1, 27 | Books |
Sections 1, 26 | Antiques and collectibles |
Sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 25, 26 | Miscellaneous and used clothing |
Srinagarindra Train Market
If you believe in the “Old is Gold” concept, this exclusive market is for you. Rod Fai Market Srinakarin is a shopping market in Bangkok known for its vintage ambiance.
Bustling Srinagarindra Train Market
The pathways and stalls are decorated in a retro style with vintage cars, classic motorcycles, and old signage. Upbeat music plays from different corners, spreading a festive and energetic vibe.
Quick Facts
- Location: Srinagarindra Train Market, Bangkok
- Market Timing: 5 PM-1 AM
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening, around 6 PM.
- Payment Option: Cash
Stepping into Rod Fai Market Srinakarin Market in Bangkok is like taking a time machine to Bangkok’s past. What adds an extra layer of enjoyment to this shopping market in Bangkok is the special events happening there like:
- Vintage car shows
- Live bands playing classic tunes
- Cultural performances such as traditional Thai dance or music
In this shopping market in Bangkok, you can find everything from antique furniture to quirky accessories, trendy clothing, and rare vinyl records.
So, let’s discover the goods that you can find in this market for shopping in Bangkok:
Antique Furniture and Decorative Items | Quirky Accessories |
Old Wooden Tables and Chairs | Vintage Telephones and Radios |
Decorative Screens and Room Dividers | Old-School Cameras and Photography Equipment |
Colonial Era Pieces | Repurposed Industrial Item |
Decorative Lamps and Lanterns | Vinyl Records and Music Memorabilia |
Bangkok Farmers’ Market:
Bangkok Farmers’ Market typically takes place on weekends to support the local economy and promote environmental sustainability. It fosters a sense of unity by bringing together farmers, community, artisans, chefs, and consumers in a shared space where people can connect and learn about locally sourced products.
Quick Facts
- Location: 1st floor, K Village, Sukhumvit Soi 26
- Market Timing: 10 AM – 7 PM (Sat-Sun)
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening, around 6 PM.
- Payment Option: Cash
This market focuses on selling fresh organic products straight from farms. To promote environmental sustainability, it asks vendors, local people and tourists to use reusable shopping bags, offers recycling stations, and promotes eco-friendly practices.
X Factor of Bangkok Farmers’ Market, Bangkok
It often hosts live events:
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What to shop in this weekend market in Bangkok?
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
- Organic Products
- Herbs
- Honey and Dairy Products.
- Baked Goods
- Homemade jams
- Pickles
- Cheeses
- Locally crafted beverages like kombucha and craft beer
- Unique handmade crafts
- Eco-friendly Products
- Sustainable Goods
Street Markets in Bangkok for Shopping
Street markets in Bangkok are popular for both shopping and street foods. You can enjoy finger-licking snacks while shopping in these markets. So, get ready with a list of street foods you want to try in these street markets for shopping in Bangkok.
Khao San Road
Want to enjoy freedom in shopping markets in Bangkok? Then, go straight to Khao San Road market.
Crowds in Khao San Road Bangkok
Khao San Road is a popular tourist street that creates a carnival-like ambiance. This shopping street in Bangkok is adorned with colorful neon lights, decorative lanterns, and other festive decorations that illuminate the entire market. Bars, pubs, and nightclubs with live bands and DJs double the energy of this market.
Quick Facts
- Location: Khao San Road, Bangkok
- Market Timing: 3 PM- 2 AM
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening, around 7 PM.
- Payment Option: Cash
The most amazing thing is that many of the popular sightseeing spots, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Phra Sumen Fort and the Banglamphu Market, are within walking distance.
X Factor of Khao San Road
Talented performers add life to this market, and the events mentioned below draw crowds who gather to watch and often join in the festivities.
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Everyone loves this shopping market in Bangkok, but more than that, it is a paradise for travel backpackers or solo travelers as they feel a sense of camaraderie when they explore the street, share experiences with fellow travelers, and immerse themselves in a lively cultural exchange that defines this popular destination.
Next, get ready to experience the multicultural vibe in one of the shopping markets in Bangkok.
Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Want to experience another country in Bangkok? Then, get ready to experience Chinese culture in Bangkok in the Chinatown market in Yaowarat.
Nightlife of Bangkok’s Chinatown
Yaowarat is one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns outside of China. It is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and history. Traditional Chinese temples, such as Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, offer a chance to experience Chinese architecture.
Quick Facts
- Location: Chinatown (Yaowarat), Bangkok
- Market Timing: Open 24 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime
- Payment Option: Cash
If you are a food lover, then, this is a must-visit market in Bangkok known for its street food. Check out some the food items you find here:
Special Chinese and Thai-Chinese specialties to try:
- Roasted duck
- Dim sum
- Seafood dishes
- Exotic delicacies like bird’s nest soup
- Fresh seafood
- Dim Sum and Dumplings
- Roasted Meats
- Egg Tarts and Pastries
- Fried Insects
- Fish
- Prawns
- Crabs and shellfish
- Dragon fruit
- Lychee
- Chinese broccoli
Chinese Special Products for shopping in Chinatown market in Yaowarat Bangkok
Gold Jewellery:Necklaces
Bracelets Charms Amulets |
Chinese Tea: Green teasOolongs Pu-erh
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Chinese Medicine: HerbsTonics Dried mushrooms Ginseng Herbal medicine |
Trinkets and Keepsakes:
Keychains Magnets Decorative items adorned with Symbols of Chinese culture.
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Chinese Calligraphy:
Brushes Inkstones Artworks
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Cultural Items:
Chinese lanterns Decorative items Lucky charms Cultural artifacts |
Art and Craft Markets in Bangkok
Bangkok’s art and craft market is a community space where creative intellectuals, such as artists and designers, unite. It encourages cultural exchange and helps local artists and craftsmen.
Chang Chui Plane Market
In Thai, “Chang Chui” translates to “messy art” or “quirky crafts,” another form of innovation. This market gives artists the creative space to display their works.
Shopping clothes – Chang Chui Plane Market
It is situated in the Thonburi area of Bangkok, specifically on Sirindhorn Road. This location is somewhat off the beaten path compared to more central tourist areas, which adds to its charm.
Quick Facts
- Location: Chang Chui Market, Bangkok
- Market Timing: 11 AM- 11 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Around 4 pm
- Payment Option: Cash
Art installations, vintage shops, boutiques selling unique fashion items, and handicraft stalls. There are also art galleries, live music performances, and workshops where visitors can engage with local artists and artisans.
X Factor of Chang Chui Market
The architectural structures are made from recycled materials like old airplanes and shipping containers, giving the market a distinctive and environmentally conscious aesthetic. You can shop for unique goods made of sustainable recycled metals or plastics and artwork created from salvaged materials.
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Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) Market:
BACC is an art gallery that turns out to be market-selling unique handcrafts and art products.
This market is an artistic hub where contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and events occur. It is situated in the heart of Bangkok, near the National Stadium BTS station. This is the land for creativity and cultural exchange.
Quick Facts
- Location: Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) Market
- Market Timing: 10 AM-8 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime
- Payment Option: Cash
The BACC market is usually held on weekends on the center’s ground floor or outdoor plaza. This artistic shopping market in Bangkok showcases handmade crafts, design products, art pieces, fashion items, and artisanal goods created by local artists, designers, and craftsmen.
You can discover new talents and take home unique artworks and handmade treasures.
X Factor of Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) Market:
They conduct cultural events and activities:
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Unique finds to do shopping in this Bangkok market
Thai Paintings and Art Prints: | Thai Textiles and Apparel: | Home Decor and Furnishings |
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Abstract | Textiles like Ikat and Batik use of (weaving techniques) | Paintings |
Contemporary | Dresses | Wall hangings |
Traditional | Shirts | Tapestries |
Posters | Skirts | Art prints (for framing) |
Cushions and pillows with unique designs |
Crafts and Handicrafts: | Functional art pieces: | |
---|---|---|
Abstract | Decorative lamps | |
Lacquerware | Handcrafted sculptures | Ceramic pottery includes vases, bowls, plates, and decorative objects |
Carved wooden items Eco-friendly products | (made of wood, metal, clay, and resin). | |
Upcycled goods made from recycled materials |
Conclusion
I know planning for trip with shopping in Bangkok markets is quite challenging as Bangkok has so many cheap markets for shopping. I hope I have made your work a little easier, but if you are still confused or get stuck and need any sort of help, please contact Dimaak Tours. We have destination experts to give you insights about markets for shopping in Bangkok and help you curate your itinerary.
Happy Shopping..
FAQs
Q. 1) What are the opening hours of night markets for shopping in Bangkok?
Ans: Night markets in Bangkok usually open in the late afternoon or evening, around 5 p.m. and remain open until midnight or sometimes until 3 a.m.
Q. 2) Do weekend markets for shopping in Bangkok open only on weekends?
Ans: Yes, weekend markets in Bangkok are usually open on Saturdays and Sundays only. Some may have limited hours on Fridays or sometimes for special events.
Q. 3) Where can you find unique handmade souvenir markets for shopping in Bangkok?
Ans: For souvenir takeaways, there are art and craft markets in Bangkok. You can buy unique handmade items like paintings, textiles, wood carvings and jewelry.
Q. 4) Is there a flower market in Bangkok that is exclusively for flowers?
Ans: Pak Khlong Talat is also called Bangkok’s Flower Market, which is open 24/7.
Q. 5) Is there any difference between the night and street markets in Bangkok?
Ans: Night markets in Bangkok are usually larger and planned with various stalls. Whereas street markets in Bangkok are smaller, unplanned, and have temporary setups along the streets.